Dallas Mavericks Blog

Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle has surgery, will miss game

Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle will miss Monday night’s game at Oklahoma City after having knee surgery over the Christmas holiday break.

Carlisle said today that he had what he termed “minor” arthroscopic surgery. The medical staff has suggested it would be wise not to travel for a few days. Assistant coach Dwane Casey will coach the team against the Thunder, Carlisle said.

Carlisle has been bothered by left knee problems for some time. Carlisle has often worn a brace or support sleeve under his practice sweats.

Casey has led the team occasionally when Carlisle has been ejected and during the preseason game against Phoenix in Indian Wells, Calif., when Carlisle stayed home after a fainting spell at practice.